"I've always known about those poor buggers in those conditions but it (the dog tag) makes it more personal," he said.

"It is truly gratifying to see that there are good people around who still care and have respect for the efforts of all those who risked all in the service of their countries, even after almost 100 years having now passed.”

The young Frenchman who made the discovery, 18-year-old Valentin Henon, is keen to come to Australia to present the dog tag to Bernie in person.